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The Shepherds Hut at Mill Granary

Ingleton, Durham, England
1 acre hosted by Kate H.
Luxurious, rural living subtly squeezed into a traditional shepherd's hut with a fabulous location on the edge of County Durham

When Kate and Richard Hodgson decided to diversify their 330-acre dairy farm in 2004 it was converting the old agricultural barns that made most sense. The farm’s prime location between the North Pennines, the Yorkshire Dales and the North York Moors, made it an obvious destination for travellers and, after painstaking work, the farm’s disused, 19th-century granary was opened as a five-star lodging with much success. Roll on more than a decade and every inch of that same formula – the beautiful Tees Valley location, the heritage of the farm setting and, yes, the luxury, is now echoed in the brand new addition to their enterprise: A traditional shepherd’s hut, chock full of traditional decals and details but with a healthy dose of modern comforts.

Looking out across the valley, with excellent views from the windows and stable door, this single shepherd’s hut is a real masterpiece of design. Outside it has a wonderfully traditional appearance; the corrugated roof curves over the wood-panelled exterior, while smoke drifts from the small chimney spout that pokes from the roof, feeding down to the homely, cast-iron wood burner. Inside, however, while the details have a real farmhouse feel – prints of hares and Yorkshire rams adorn the walls – the place is a thoroughly modern affair. A frosted glass door leads through to the en suite bathroom (it has an excellent power shower), while the built-in king-sized bed is cocooned at one end of the hut with an HD television above and a circular, porthole window looking out across the farm.

In all, Kate and Richard have taken the style of their luxury, five-star cottages and compressed it into the cosily romantic confines of this shepherd’s hut. From the functional kitchen space to the private garden outside, there’s nothing more you could need. And from the doorstep, of course, the world of England’s North East is your oyster. Romp along the farm’s footpaths to The Raby Hunt, the region’s only two Michelin starred restaurant, just over a mile away, or hop in the car to visit the magnificent High Force Waterfall. If it rains there are the museums of Barnard Castle to occupy you and the grand interior of Durham Cathedral, a 35-minute drive away. Or you could simply stay put around the wood-burner, listing to the raindrops drumming on the rooftop and enjoying the simple pleasures of living in this shepherd’s home from home.

Activities
Biking
Hiking
Wildlife watching
Not currently accepting bookings on Hipcamp
More camping spots nearby
Location
Ingleton, Durham, England, United KingdomTraditional, ancestral territory of various First Nations according to To respect the Host's privacy, the precise address of this land will be provided after booking
Hosted by Kate H.Joined in July 2017
From the host
Our romantic shepherds hut offering glamping for two in style. Experience nature in luxury, perfect for a romantic break or well needed rest. Beautiful sweeping views of rolling countryside and relaxing outdoor space for star gazing. The Shepherds Hut, Mill Granary and Mill Byre are all within the vicinity of each other so extra guests can link in with both houses for more accommodation. Set in the beautiful quiet countryside of the Tees Valley straddling County Durham and North Yorkshire lies a traditional-looking shepherds hut which blends seamlessly with the landscape. It has its own parking area at the rear and in front a delightful South-facing private garden with lawn area and decking. Here you can relax in the traditional deck chairs or dine al fresco taking in the views.
Nearby attractions
It’s just under 10 miles to the edge of the North Pennines Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty, while the Yorkshire Dales are also within easy reach. Though these hiking hot-spots are on the doorstep, you needn’t travel that far for a good walk, with plenty of excellent routes from just outside Mill Granary itself. On the way to the North Pennines, stop of in Teesdale for a walk around the elegant old town, then continue on to the impressive High Force Waterfall (01833 622209) – one of the most spectacular waterfalls in England. Closer at hand the town of Barnard Castle (9 miles) is also worth a day of your time. It offers a host of independent shops, cafés and pubs, plus the medieval ruins of the 12th century castle that gives the town its name. It is also home to the intriguing Bowes Museum (01833 690606). Designed and purpose-built as a public art gallery by the French architect Jules Pellechet and opened in 1892, the museum has the striking appearance of an opulent French chateau. The 35-minute drive to Durham city is also a must. The tumbledown city on the banks of the River Wear has plenty to occupy you, from the grand cathedral (0191 386 4266) and museums, to free guided walks and more.
Food and drink
It’s 1½ miles to The Raby Hunt restaurant (01325 374237), housed inside a beautiful grade II listed building in the pretty village of Summerhouse, and the nearest of the best local restaurants. It’s 4 miles to The Fox Hole (01325 374286), a top-notch gastro pub with a relaxed “Wellie” bar as well as the elegant dining room and terrace. It’s a mile further to the Bridgewater Arms (01325 730302) in Winston – a few minutes walk from the village’s landmark bridge over the river Tees.

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